Travel To Israel: American Or Israeli Passport?

Israeli citizens with dual citizenship are required by Israeli law to enter and exit the country using their Israeli passports. Due to a passport backlog, Israeli citizens are temporarily allowed to enter and depart Israel using their non-Israeli passports until December 31, 2024. Israeli citizens must present their expired Israeli passport along with their valid foreign passport to border control upon entering Israel.

Israeli citizens with dual nationality must enter and leave Israel using their Israeli passports

Israeli citizens must present their expired Israeli passport alongside their valid foreign passport when entering the country. Airlines may deny boarding to passengers with an expired Israeli passport, so it is important to check with the airline before travelling.

U.S. citizens who are not dual Israeli citizens must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Israel. From January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens will also need an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) or a visa to enter Israel for business or tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days.

U.S. citizens who are also listed on the Palestinian Population Registry for Gaza may enter Israel visa-free for short-term visits of up to 90 days. This applies to those with a centre of life in Gaza, and those with a centre of life outside the Gaza Strip.

Israeli citizens with dual nationality must always carry a valid Israeli travel document when staying abroad.

Israeli citizens with an expired Israeli passport can use it to enter Israel until 31 December 2024

It is important to note that this allowance only applies to entry into Israel and does not guarantee boarding on flights. Airlines may deny boarding to passengers with expired travel documents and may have other procedures regarding the validity of travel documents. Israeli citizens should verify the relevant requirements with their chosen airline before travelling.

Israeli citizens who have not visited Israel in the past 10 years are required to appear in person at their local embassy or consulate when applying for a travel document.

Israeli citizens with a foreign passport and an expired Israeli passport can enter Israel with their foreign passport until 31 December 2024

Israeli citizens without a foreign passport can also use their expired Israeli passport to enter Israel until 31 December 2024.

Israeli citizens with a foreign passport who are also listed on the Palestinian Population Registry for Gaza may enter Israel visa-free for short-term visits of up to 90 days for business, tourism, or transit. This applies to those with a centre of life inside or outside the Gaza Strip.

Israeli citizens residing in the West Bank must have a valid B2 admission paper or a "US tourist approval" issued through the Al-Munassiq app to enter and exit Israel, including via Ben Gurion Airport.

U.S. citizens who are not Israeli citizens must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Israel. Until 1 January 2025, U.S. citizens can enter Israel for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. From 1 January 2025, an approved Electronic Travel Authorisation or a visa will be required for U.S. citizens to enter Israel for stays of up to 90 days.

Israeli citizens who have never held an Israeli passport should contact the consular department for instructions

The process of applying for an Israeli passport can be done by mail or in person at the Israeli mission in the country of residence. If applying for the first time, the applicant must appear in person at the mission. This is also the case for citizens who have not visited Israel in the past 10 years.

For the application, two recent photos against a white background are required, along with proof of Israeli citizenship. The applicant must also bring their previous travel document if they are renewing their passport.

The consular department provides services to residents of specific states only, so it is important to check this before applying.

Israeli citizens under 18 must have their passport application signed by both parents

Israeli citizens are allowed to enter and exit Israel using a foreign passport until December 31, 2024. This is due to a passport backlog. However, it is recommended to also present an expired Israeli passport along with the foreign passport to border control when entering Israel.

Israeli citizens under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parents when applying for a passport at the embassy. The presence of both parents is required to identify the applicant and for signing the letter of agreement. If the parents are registered as married to each other, then only one parent needs to be present. It is recommended to send a photocopy of both parents' passports in advance for verification.

The application form must be filled out (preferably digitally) and signed by both parents. The application, along with the required documents, can be sent by mail to the embassy or the relevant consulate. Alternatively, the application can be submitted in person at the embassy or consulate by scheduling an appointment in advance.

The required documents for renewing an Israeli travel document for a minor include:

• The last Israeli travel document.
• Two up-to-date passport photos (2-inch by 2-inch on a white background).
• A credit card for payment.
• A registered mail return shipping form.

Frequently asked questions